X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences Discover a comprehensive exploration of X-ray fluorescence in chemical biology and the clinical and plant sciences In X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences: Principles, Instrumentation, and Applications, a team of accomplished researchers delivers extensive coverage of the application of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in the biological sciences, including chemical biology, clinical science, and plant science. The book also explores recent advances in XRF imaging techniques in these fields. The authors focus on understanding and investigating the intercellular structures and metals in plant cells, with advanced discussions of recently developed micro-analytical methods, like energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF), total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF), micro-proton induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE), electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA), synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy (SXRF, SRIXE, or micro-XRF) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). With thorough descriptions of protocols and practical approaches, the book also includes: A thorough introduction to the historical background and fundamentals of X-ray fluorescence, as well as recent developments in X-ray fluorescence analysis Comprehensive explorations of the general properties, production, and detection of X-rays and the preparation of samples for X-ray fluorescence analysis Practical discussions of the quantification of prepared samples observed under X-ray fluorescence and the relation between precision and beam size and sample amount In-depth examinations of wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence and living materials Perfect for students and researchers studying the natural and chemical sciences, medical biology, plant physiology, agriculture, and botany, X-Ray Fluorescence in Biological Sciences: Principles, Instrumentation, and Applications will also earn a place in the libraries of researchers at biotechnology companies.

Despite the development of innovative new analytical techniques for biological trace element research, today's trace element investigators face formidable obstacles to obtaining reliable data. This complete reference identifies and assesses the challenges the analyst encounters at each stage of an analysis, and discusses the effects of various techniques on the sample. Three internationally recognized scientists and authors consider the effects of the numerous collection, storage, and sample preparatory techniques used in sample analysis. Proper analytical quality control, including such critical factors as sampling and sample preparation, specimen preservation and storage, and ashing, is examined. The book also looks at sample preparation methods unique to various instruments and speciation chemistry issues, and examines the link between chemical analysis and specimen banking. A previously unrecognized source of error, presampling factors, is also discussed.

The authoritative handbook to exploiting the full power and versatility of PIXE— now and in the next century Respected for its practical accuracy and detection range of parts per million, particle-induced X-ray emission has enjoyed a secure place in the analytical arsenal of the nuclear physics laboratory. Yet, its undeniable analytical potential in other areas of science has scarcely been tapped. This unique reference, from PIXE specialists in biomedicine, atmospheric science, earth science, and art and archaeology, features a user-based look at PIXE's conceptual basics and methodology, with a view toward new and creative analytical work. Touching on every facet of PIXE technology, from basic instrumentation, specimens, the characteristics of X-ray spectroscopy, standardization of quantitative analysis, to the accuracy of PIXE analysis and its limits of detection, the book offers an unprecedented look at the newer uses of PIXE in such areas as: Applications of macro- and micro-PIXE in medicine, zoology, and botany Analysis of atmospheric aerosols Geological and extra-terrestrial material Analysis of gem stones, pottery, glass, and alloys As an exploratory tool for pigments and paintings and "paper-like" materials Complete with a comparative look contrasting PIXE with more conventional forms of analysis, this important reference is key to grasping the technique's practical specifics and exploiting its full analytical potential.